China’s Chrysanthemum FDCs in great demand

Stamp Market Tips by Henry Gitner and Rick Miller

The Chinese economy is on shaky ground as we write this, but money is still flowing freely into China’s stamps as investors look for safe havens for their cash on hand. The Chinese stamp market, as it has been for more than two decades, remains most active and in flux.

In 1960-61, China issued a set of 18 Chrysanthemum stamps (Scott 542-559). This set is popular with both China and topical collectors. Gum toning is a problem on all early People’s Republic of China issues, and this one is no exception.

The Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue values the set in mint, never-hinged condition without toned gum at $1,491. A set in used condition is valued at $120.50. All the values are given in italics, indicating the rapid fluctuations in value this set experiences.

As of this writing, the set is well worth $800 to $900 in mint, never-hinged condition without gum toning.

Sets of cacheted unaddressed first-day covers of early People’s Republic of China issues are in great demand. Prices vary greatly relative to the same set in mint condition, but they are always worth much more than a set in used condition.

A set of cacheted FDCs for the Chrysanthemum stamps recently sold in an online auction for about $760 with 18 bidders battling it out for the prize.

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